Des, its not the use of 200hrs F/O operationally that is my the problem, its recruiting these pilots on pathetic wages to bring down the T&C's of everyone else that is the problem here. In a way its "de-skilling" our profession and in Australia especially where there is always a pool of more experienced pilots I see it as just way for companies like Jetstar to reduce costs.
There are two sides to everything, i have friends flying out of the UK that say operating (especially initially) with very low hour F/O's is like flying single pilot. These kids are great at using FMC's and radio calls, but most of their situational awareness and flying skills are abysmal. Sure they get better with experience, but should they be getting their experience with 180 pax on board? I think its a mute argument anyway, i think 200hrs F/O's will dissappear here due to regulation anyway.
Sorry for the thread drift! Have any of the MOU positions been filled recently?